Powers of attorney and guardianship
Choose now who will speak for you later
If an illness or an accident leaves you unable to sign, someone has to pay the bills and talk to the doctors. These documents say who, and what they may do.
A power of attorney is a trust placed in a person, so the choice matters more than the form. We help you pick an agent, a back-up for the agent, and the limits that make you comfortable. When no document was ever signed, a court may have to name a guardian; we help families through that, too.
We prepare
A financial power of attorney
A medical power of attorney
A directive to physicians (living will)
Guardianship, when no plan was made
Special needs trusts for a family member
Who does what
Three roles, kept apart on purpose
You may choose one person for all three or a different person for each. We write down what each may and may not do.
An agent for money
Pays bills, handles accounts and signs for you on matters you list. You can say it starts at once or only if a doctor says you can’t manage.
An agent for health
Speaks with doctors and chooses treatment when you can’t, using what you have told them about your wishes.
A guardian, if no one was named
A judge appoints one after a hearing. It takes longer and costs more than the documents above, which is why most families sign them first.
Questions from the kitchen table
Can my mother sign a power of attorney if she is forgetful?
Sometimes. What matters is whether she understands what she is signing on the day she signs. We meet her alone first, and we do not go forward if we are not sure.
Does a power of attorney work after I die?
No. It ends at death. A will or a trust is what guides what happens next.
My son has a disability. How do I plan for him?
A special needs trust can hold money for him without putting his benefits at risk. We help you choose who will manage it and what comes after you.
Tell us who you trust
A first conversation takes about an hour. Bring the names of the people you have in mind; we will help with the rest.